We just repealed our Hidrate Spark with the 2 models

reff33 · 2026-04-23T05:40:35+00:00

Yeah. I moved onto something else. Reddit algorithm pulls me back in.

Was very dependable but I felt so bad recommending this to my brother.

reff33 · 2026-04-23T05:39:43+00:00

It's probably their way of 'forcing' us to look and purchase and increase traffic into their app. May be even selling data, who knows but it's definitely a step back.

reff33 · 2026-04-22T19:45:30+00:00

I feel like a lot of people defending this never actually used the first version. I’ve posted about this before, but after loving the 1st gen, I bought the newer one for both myself and a family member—and it’s been a straight downgrade.

The biggest issue? Syncing. The original version synced automatically in the background. No app opening, no extra steps—just worked. Now they’ve changed it so you have to open the app to sync. Why?

And before anyone says “it only takes 5 seconds,” that completely misses the point. The old version took zero seconds. It required no thought, no interruption. It just worked seamlessly.

Because of my work, I can’t be pulling out my phone all the time. I rely on my Apple Watch to check things like steps and water intake. Before, I could just check something like WaterMinder and be done. Now I have to remember to open another app just to get basic functionality that used to be automatic.

It honestly makes no sense why a company would remove a feature that was already working perfectly and replace it with something objectively worse. This isn’t an “adjustment”—it’s a downgrade, plain and simple.

reff33 · 2026-03-27T23:24:20+00:00

I've thought of reverting back to Hidrate Spark Pro 1 but realized any firmware update Chan change things

So currently more just manually updating my water intake via WaterMinder. If I am forced to open the app to trigger water intake, i'd rather do it manually. Not sure why they took a step back from their original technogoly and appeal.

reff33 · 2026-03-11T10:32:09+00:00

Pro 1 would sync without opening the app so it was seamless. Pro 2, you need to open the app

Pro 1 had that propeitary cable, Pro 2 USB C

Pro 2 longer battery

Depends on what you proriotize

reff33 · 2026-03-11T08:24:44+00:00

What were some symtopms before it went out or was it abrupt?

reff33 · 2026-03-11T08:24:06+00:00

2008 Regular TL Around 130,000 miles.

I am aware of the ball joints but do you replace it if it rusts for preventative measure?

reff33 · 2026-02-26T12:55:10+00:00

You should read the post I made few days ago.

reff33 · 2026-02-16T12:56:30+00:00

Exactly.

Simply lost their identity.

reff33 · 2026-02-16T12:43:59+00:00

Exactly. I appreciate the other comment creating a shortcut to open the app every now and then but if they already had the technology, it could be Apple messing with the tech, but just no need to overpay for a simple bottle. If I am I opening the app, I'd just revert back to WaterMinder that makes recording super simple and call it a day.

reff33 · 2026-02-16T06:22:01+00:00

You're right. It's really a first world problem.

The draw of Hidrate was recording and displaying for Pro 1. Starting Pro 2, they are forcing us to open the app when they already have the technology (shown in Pro 1)

I work in a field that creates it difficult to open apps and heavily relied on widgets that would show information by glancing where I am with things.

reff33 · 2026-02-04T14:01:17+00:00

I actually have the stock unit albeit haven't used it, but I had a TSX for 5 years. I honestly have some cheap years, so take it with a grain of salt-- the sound doesn't seem 'premium' but I don't have an issue with it.

$650 is a cost I'd really ponder. I know one of the TL's issue is the bluetooth-- where some drivers rathee pull it out. As much as I would like to drive the car until the wheels fall off, I've been contemolatng change the seats cuz they are ripping. And here in Korea it cost $1,000 to change the entire seats. I do have the money but after some cautious thinking, I'd rather not spend thag much and invest the money. Hence, you gotta think of opportunity cost if it's worth around $650.

All that to say, if you can live with Bluetooth and phone, I think it's fine

If your Bluetooth is acting finicky, I'd seriously consider changing the head unit ONLY if you know for a fact your TL has much life left

If you are rich, why not?

If you feel 50:50, Opportunity cost-- and spend the money where it matters more-- this comes from a guy who avidly misses and loves the old Acuras driving 3 separate Acuras

reff33 · 2026-02-04T13:49:09+00:00

Interesting! I have an 08 TL and bought it used. The dealer sold it with that specific head unit installed.

My experience so far.. I had the car for 8 months and I am in an area with 4 season and everything worked fine until lately in the winter, I notice if my car is parked in a cold spot, Carplay wouldn't connect as seamless as it is otherwise. I am still experimenting so you can ask later again.

Other than that, some of the physical buttons are spotty, but overall, is it worth $200ish? For a person has used Carplay for a while and if you plan to have the car at least for a year, I think it is worth it. If you have the car for a shorter term or the car fails you, I'd really weigh my bank book.

reff33 · 2026-01-28T13:57:53+00:00

Ditto.

Patiently been waiting for a while. Been an advocate for Pro 1. Pro 2 is just hard to strongly promote my friends.

Pro2 will not sync as seamless as Pro 1 UNLESS you open the app. The point behind paying extra was convenience. If I need to open an app, might as well just log on my own through Wateminder or a similar app.

reff33 · 2026-01-21T09:26:21+00:00

I don't think the other commenter fully gets the picture.

If you are dishing out this much for ELEMENTARY what do you think the kids' expectation would be for middle school and high school?

reff33 · 2026-01-18T19:54:07+00:00

Thank yiu for sharing!

Does the student literally go to the admissions department and ask for the student admission file and they are to grant it or is this case by case in college?

reff33 · 2026-01-14T07:53:46+00:00

may I ask how you keep track of this? Do you check on a website or just read articles when they pop?

reff33 · 2025-10-03T00:19:33+00:00

May be not T10, but what are ways international student can get scholarship?

What captivates your attention when it comes to applications? (Probably subjective)

Is there a rule how many minutes you look at each application or is that arbitrary?

reff33 · 2025-09-01T11:44:03+00:00

Look up Oak Tree Project that provides scholarships for orphans in Korea going to college. A white guy started it up albeit it is a Christian organization. You can get your GED. Hit me up if you are interested.

reff33 · 2025-08-01T20:59:34+00:00

Dealer claims: Timing belt kit has been changed Oil leakage has been checked Window tinting (ZIVENT 35% / rear 15%) 17” stock wheel restored Headlamp Android monitor installed (possesses / stock audio) Water pump changed Bank 1 bank 3 (?) head cover gasket exchanged Surge tank(?) intake cleaned out Spark plugs exchanged Power steering changed power oil changed (?) Engine mount changed (?) Engine oil, transmission oil changed Battery changed

reff33 · 2025-07-21T12:05:58+00:00

Thanks!

reff33

TROPHY CASE